Questions About Naturalization

The path to obtaining permanent residency and citizenship is often lengthy, difficult, and complex. Our New Jersey immigration lawyer discusses clients’ questions about naturalization.

Questions About Naturalization | I Have a Green Card; How Do I Become Naturalized?

A Lawful Permanent Resident (“green card holder”) could remain a green card holder, or petition to become an American citizen. To become eligible to apply for citizenship, you must be at least 18 years old, you must have been a Lawful Permanent Resident for five years (or three if you are married to a U.S. citizen), without any significant absences (6 months or more). Additionally, you must satisfy the following:

Questions About Naturalization | How Should I Know About the Naturalization Process?

When a client has an initial consultation, the attorney should gather as much information as possible in order to set forth realistic expectations. Before proceeding with a naturalization application, it is important to know if a client has been subject to any past legal problems, such as an arrest, taxation issues, or a period when the person fell out of status. An attorney can accompany the applicant to the naturalization interview, which is especially helpful if English is not a client’s strongest language. If a client cannot speak English at all, a New Jersey Naturalization Lawyer may be able to file a medical exception. If you have had a green card for 20 years and are at least 50 years old, or 15 years and are at least 55 years old, you will still have to pass the history and civics part of the citizenship test, but can take the test in your native language. A mental or physical disability might also be grounds for an exemption.

Questions About Naturalization | Can I Replace a Lost Certificate of Naturalization?

You might be in this position if you’re a U.S. citizen trying to sponsor a family member. Rest easy: you can replace a Certificate of Naturalization, though the process may take up to a year. You will need to submit an N-565 form.

Author: Susan W. Scheer, Esq.

Call The Scheer Immigration Law Group today at (973) 984-8400 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation. We represent clients throughout Morris, Essex and Sussex, Bergen, Warren, Passaic and Union Counties and the tri-state area from our Morristown office.